Ranking Each Wrestler’s Performance in NJPW G1 Climax 28

14. EVIL

On the surface, it would be easy to dismiss EVIL’s G1 performance as a bit of a disappointment. He was outshone by his stablemates who were thriving in the stacked B block, and it lacked a big signature moment like his decimation of Okada from last year’s tournament. Still, The King of Darkness delivered a solid tournament. He had excellent matches with Elgin, Page, Okada, and Tanahashi, and solid matches with the rest of his block.

13. Hangman Page

Page made the most of his first G1, delivering a true breakout performance. He completely blew expectations out of the water in every way. His in-ring work was solid throughout as he seamlessly took on the role of fiery underdog babyface. By the end of his encounter with Okada on night 5, he had captured the heart and minds of the Japanese fanbase. For the rest of the tournament, crowds chanted his name as he desperately tried to pick up a pinfall victory. Towards the end of the tournament he was able to pick up two of the biggest wins of his career over veterans Makabe and Suzuki.

12. Zack Sabre Jr

ZSJ had the near impossible task of following up his career defining performance in the New Japan Cup earlier this year. He didn’t quite reach the heights achieved in March, but it was still a solid G1 for the Technical Wizard. Although I wouldn’t call any of his outings exceedingly great, he was easily one of the tournament’s most consistent competitors. He occupied the co-main spot on three of B block’s biggest nights and delivered ****+ matches on each occasion. Additionally, Zack picked up big wins over Goto and Juice, securing two future Championship opportunities.